The Rise and Impending Fall of the Dental Cavity
Summary
This article traces the history and biology of dental caries, detailing how Streptococcus mutans metabolizes sugars to produce acid that demineralizes enamel, and reviews historical and contemporary perspectives on oral health. It blends scientific discussion with anecdotes, historical imagery, and a bold promotional angle about a bacterially-based caries intervention marketed as a vaccine, raising biosafety and ethical considerations alongside claims of potential eradication. The piece advocates for global public health efforts while acknowledging uncertainties and the promotional nature of some content.